Eating foods that contain antioxidants such as fruit, vegetables and even certain types of chocolate can help to prevent the onset of chronic or degenerative diseases which are caused by cellular damage.
What are Antioxidants?
Antioxidants are substances that help to prevent oxygen damage to our body's cells. Oxygen damage (oxidation) occurs when our body's cells use oxygen and produce toxic molecules called free radicals which damage the cells.
Our body's natural defence systems usually repair the damage caused by oxidation. However if oxygen damage overpowers our body's natural defences, the reactions can accumulate. This can result in the degeneration of your bones, the weakening of your immune system and the premature effects of ageing.
Oxygen damage may also lead to the onset of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease and cancer.
Antioxidants prevent and repair the damage caused by free radicals. Research has shown that antioxidants help to:
increase our energy
boost our immune system
reduce inflammation
Antioxidant-Rich Foods
Here is a brief list of foods which contain antioxidants:
Foods Rich in Vitamin A
Carrots, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, peaches, apricots
Foods Rich in Vitamin C
Oranges, limes, green peppers, strawberries
Foods Rich in Vitamin E
Nuts, vegetable oil
Other Foods
Chicken, eggs, garlic, shellfish, red wine, watermelon
Mangosteen is a fruit from the orient, contains antioxidants which support the immune system, digestive system, the brain and the skin.
Wolfberries contain substances (carotenoids) which help to protect the liver and the body from cell damage.
Raspberries contain natural chemicals and vitamins which help to boost energy.
Blueberries help to maintain healthy levels of cholesterol. They also help to prevent premature ageing.
Green tea helps to prevent uncontrollable cell growth, lowers cholesterol and helps to support the digestive system.
Apple juice and skins contain antioxidants (phenols) which balance cell growth, supports the circulatory system, helps to prevent premature aging and inflammation.
Concord grapes and red grapes contain essential minerals and antioxidants which prevent inflammation and disease, improve the flexibility of the joints and aid blood circulation.
If you'd like your fruit and vegetables to retain as much of their antioxidant properties as possible, you can, for example, blend your fresh fruits into your own homemade smoothie or steam your vegetables.
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